At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to deliver high-quality catering services in a secure environment.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to making a positive impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, generous leave, gym access, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team focused on growth and rehabilitation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in residents' lives while developing your culinary skills.
- Qualifications: Catering qualification and experience in large-scale food preparation required.
The predicted salary is between 30051 - 30051 £ per year.
Permanent, Full Time
£30,051 per annum plus excellent benefits
Ready to impact a better future? As a Chef in our Justice team, you'll play a key role in delivering high-quality catering services within HMP Dovegate. You'll help ensure meals are nutritious, compliant with regulations, and prepared to a consistently high standard, supporting the day‑to‑day wellbeing of residents. This is more than a kitchen role. Your work will contribute to rehabilitation by creating structure, building skills, and supporting a positive environment. You'll be part of a team that takes pride in making a real difference – helping to create a safe, respectful space where people can grow and move towards a better future.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the delivery of catering services across the establishment, ensuring compliance with food safety and health and safety regulations
- Prepare and provide varied, balanced menus, including special diets, cultural and religious requirements, and events
- Maintain high standards of food safety, storage and hygiene throughout preparation and service
- Complete all required documentation in line with Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) and company policies
- Supervise and support kitchen workers, contributing to training and development
- Carry out quality checks before, during and after meal service
- Respond to feedback and complaints, working collaboratively to improve service delivery
- Support operational requirements including resident movement and kitchen procedures
Who we’re looking for
- A recognised catering qualification such as City and Guilds or NVQ in food preparation and production
- Food Safety Level 3 and awareness of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) and allergen management
- Experience in a large‑scale catering environment, ideally within a secure or regulated setting
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively
- Good organisational skills and the ability to manage time effectively in a busy environment
- A resilient and adaptable approach, with a commitment to working in a diverse and people‑focused setting
Vetting & Checks
This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance, which involves verifying your identity, employment history, nationality, and criminal record to meet government security standards. Depending on the nature of the role, you may need to obtain formal Security Clearance (such as CTC or SC), which includes more detailed background checks on employment, criminal record, and financial history to ensure suitability for working in secure environments. UK residency requirements may apply for certain levels of clearance. You will also complete an Occupational Health Questionnaire so we can identify and provide any support you may need to undertake the role effectively.
Benefits
- Competitive annual leave entitlement
- Free on‑site car parking
- Free use of on‑site gym
- Up to 6% contributory pension scheme
- Over 1,100 internal courses available, funding for qualifications and apprenticeships (including L3 Team Leader and L5 Operations Manager apprenticeships), mentoring opportunities, and a focus on internal progression
- Employee Assistance Programme, Bupa Anytime HealthLine, wellbeing app, 30% off at Serco‑managed leisure centres, and 24/7 access to a virtual GP service
- Discounts across around 1,000 retailers, from food and clothing to days out, entertainment and travel
- Paid voluntary day, tax‑free charitable giving through Payroll Giving Scheme, donate your pennies from your monthly pay to the Serco People Fund Charity
- Our networks support inclusion and connection by providing spaces for collaboration, learning, and belonging. They represent and empower all our colleagues including LGBTQIA+ employees, women, parents and carers, people with disabilities, veterans, and people from all cultural backgrounds
Catering Supervisor employer: Serco Limited
Serco Limited is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Waterlooville where innovation meets national security. With a strong focus on employee development through comprehensive training programs and a generous benefits package including 25 days of holiday and a contributory pension scheme, Serco fosters a culture of collaboration and growth, making it an ideal place for Electronics & Hardware Engineers to thrive and contribute meaningfully to defence technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Supervisor
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Serco Limited. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Serco Limited
Don't be shy about reaching out to Serco Limited directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Supervisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Serco Limited and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Serco Limited
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
